College Student Discounts 101

Heading to college in the fall? Here are some perks about being a college student that are way better than the dining hall food

Not too long ago, I was getting some udon noodles at a new ramen joint down the street from one of the local universities in Los Angeles (let me give you a hint: I would’ve be banned if I had been wearing my blue and gold sweatshirt of their cross-town rival). When I was ready to pay at the cash register, they asked for my student ID so that I could receive a 10% discount. Awesome, right?

Of course, this is a familiar sight for local eateries set up around colleges and universities across the country, and one of the great perks of being a college student.

But one of the best well-kept secrets about being in higher education is that the discounts DO NOT STOP at burgers and fries. Believe it or not, some of your favorite stores and businesses offer hefty perks and savings just for flashing your student ID.

It seems like big companies sympathize with the eternal struggle of the broke college student (probably because their higher-ups once knew the feeling). So, if you don’t have a giant trust fund or more money than you know what to do with, you should pay attention. We’ve rounded up the most enticing perks for college students at retailers like TopShop, Urban Outfitters, and Steve Madden as well as more tips on how to save so you can shop without dipping into your Top Ramen budget.